Estonia’s new Act on Granting International Protection to Aliens, which entered into force on 12 June 2026, clarifies the roles of authorities in supporting and representing unaccompanied minors. The Police and Border Guard Board (PBGB), local authorities and the Social Insurance Board (SIB) share responsibilities in this regard.
The new arrangements require local authorities to be prepared to organise representation at short notice. In exceptional circumstances, when a local authority is unable to ensure representation due to an unexpectedly high number of unaccompanied minors, the SIB may temporarily take over the representation or appoint a suitable representative. The SIB also prepares an individual case plan and, in cooperation with the local authority, arranges appropriate accommodation for the child.
The SIB developed a dedicated guide to support professionals in managing cases involving unaccompanied minors, including guidance on representation, assessing support needs, accommodation and other assistance. The guide is available on the SIB’s website: Support for Unaccompanied Minor Foreigners. A wider introduction of the guide is planned, providing specialists with an opportunity to discuss practical issues and clarify the implementation of the new arrangements.
- Social Insurance Board | Sotsiaalkindlustusamet (8 September, 2026), Saatjata alaealiste välismaalaste toetamise korraldus sai täpsemaks [Arrangements for supporting unaccompanied minor foreigners have been clarified],